Tracheal carcinoma presenting as a thyroid tumor.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Head and Neck Surgery

Background:

• Thyroid gland tumors rarely invade the trachea.
• Primary tracheal neoplasms invading the thyroid gland are exceptionally rare.

Observation:

• A case of adenoid cystic carcinoma originating in the trachea is described.
• The tumor directly invaded the thyroid gland and recurrent laryngeal nerves.

Findings:

• The tracheal tumor presented as a thyroid mass.
• Vocal cord paralysis was a presenting symptom due to recurrent laryngeal nerve involvement.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider primary tracheal neoplasms in the differential diagnosis of thyroid masses.
• This case underscores the importance of thorough evaluation for unusual tumor presentations.